Camagüey

Camagüey, city (1995 est. pop. 295,000), capital of Camagüey prov., E Cuba. The island's third most populous city, Camagüey, is a leading hub of rail, road, and air transport as well as an important commercial center. The economy is based on agriculture, cattle raising, and mining. Industries (mainly meatpacking and dairy processing) are mostly related to processing and transport. Founded in 1514 as Santa Maria del Puerto Principe, the city was moved to its present site in 1528 and renamed for the Native American village that previously occupied that site. During the colonial period Camagüey produced salted beef for the Spanish fleets and was often sacked by English, French, and Dutch pirates. The city, which has retained much of its Spanish colonial atmosphere, is noted for its churches, mansions, and narrow twisting streets.